The comprehensive implementation of a visa-free entry policy for foreign tour groups traveling by cruise ship has recently come into effect.
The Shenzhen Shekou Cruise Homeport, operated by China Merchants Group and a significant entry and exit port for South China, has introduced a 15-day visa-free entry and a 144-hour visa-free transit policy.
These measures hold crucial significance for accelerating the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, boosting opening-up of Guangdong province, and broadening the inbound tourism market.
Located at the heart of the Greater Bay Area, the Shekou Cruise Homeport is a comprehensive hub integrating cruise tourism, marine tourism, and passenger transportation. In 2024, the Peace Boat’s Pacific World was docked at the port in March and April, and will dock there again in August, bringing international tourists from approximately 20 countries. Additionally, the 172,000-ton MSC Bellissima will launch its summer season from the port in June and July, with a total of eight voyages. The MSC Splendida will operate winter cruises from December.
The visa-free policy provides a more convenient entry channel for tourists from Southeast Asia and other countries, allowing them to effortlessly set sail from Shenzhen for an unforgettable ocean voyage.
From September to November, the cruise ship “China Merchants Aden” is scheduled to operate the “Shenzhen-Shanghai” coastal boutique route for high-end international inbound tourists, with a total of eight voyages. It is the first Chinese-flagged cruise ship to host inbound passengers.
The policy undoubtedly injects new vitality into the development of Shenzhen’s cruise homeport. It will stimulate foreign tourists' enthusiasm for inbound travel, driving growth in directly related industries such as transportation, consumer goods, tourism, and retail. This will promote the development of a shared regional tourism market among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Moreover, it will help boost Shenzhen’s economic development and accelerate the transformation of Shenzhen into a world-class tourist destination.
(Executive editor: Zhu Zeya)
